Skip the Butterball hotline this year and follow our easy instructions for preparing the turkey of your dreams.

Place the turkey, breast side up, on a rimmed baking tray or cookie sheet.

(The tray catches errant turkey juices and makes post-prep cleanup a breeze.)

illustration of a turkey on roasting pan

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Lower the turkey and repeat with the other side.

This step makes for more even roasting and keeps the wingtips from burning.

Tie the Drumsticks Together

Cut a piece of kitchen twine about 8 inches long.

Illustration of how to empty the inside of a turkey

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

This makes for a tidy-looking turkey.

(Don’t worry if you don’t have a roasting pan:There are alternatives.)

If one of the wings comes untucked, just tuck it back under the bird.

illustration of how to tuck turkey wings

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

Frequently Asked Questions

Avoid a dry turkey by brining itfor several hours or a day in advance.

The salt water will penetrate into the turkey meat and help make it flavorful and moist.

The short answer: Don’t!

illustration of how to tie turkey drumsticks

Caitlin-Marie Miner Ong

(This will take at least a few hours, and up to 12 hours.)

you’re free to also try the microwave, if your turkey can squeeze in!

USDA.To wash or not to wash…your turkey?Published 2013.

USDA.How temperatures affect food.